Rum Royale
Bourbon French Parfums

RUM ROYALE (Bourbon French)

Bay Rum originated in the West Indies island of St. Thomas in 1838. It was used as an astringent and cleanser, splashed on face and arms, during hot summer months. It was first marketed in 1890 (The California Company) and 1893 (Kirk Co.), when it made its way into North America and thence to Europe.

The original formula consisted of West Indian Bay Leaves (not to be confused with the Bay Laurel Leaf used in cooking), clove, pimento, lime, cinnamon and all distilled in pure islands rum. The most famous of the bay rums was Michelsen's, which added orange to the basic recipe.

Bourbon French's take on this classic men's barbershop scent is comprised of West Indian Bay Leaf, Citrus, Cinnamon and Clove. The latter two are most prominent and the scent is quite strong with good projection and is long lasting. It is not at all harsh as some bay rums can be. There is a warm undercurrent that keeps it under control. The scent is similar to that of a kitchen during the baking of Christmas cookies and fruit cakes.

My spouse detects florals, especially a rose, in the composition.

At present there are nearly thirty bay rums listed in Basenotes, most of which are cologne strength as the ingredients are so powerful in and of themselves. Rum Royale is also available as an edt and after shave, for those who want even longer staying power. As bay rums go, it is quite nice and worthy of the attention of all fans of this iconic men's fragrance.